South Birmingham benefits from overseas investment

Much of south Birmingham is gaining economic momentum from international investment.

The city region of Greater Birmingham recently received recognition for its strategy with regard to the attraction of investment from abroad. This was highlighted by the city’s ranking in a report by fDi Magazine. Birmingham City Council’s leader, Ian Ward, has expressed his gratitude for the acknowledgement of the policy mix.

Changan, a Chinese automotive firm, recently set up a base in Solihull. The Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) has helped to create the right kind of business environment. Stationery printers in south Birmingham may benefit from foreign investment in the area. Tim Pile, the chair at GBSLEP, told BQ Magazine:

“The scale of investment coming into Greater Birmingham has rapidly gained momentum in recent years, creating a more diversified, robust economy. There is increased confidence in the region following large-scale infrastructure and development schemes such as its two HS2 stations, the £400 million extension of Birmingham Airport and The Hub in Solihull.”

Pile stated that the workforce of Greater Birmingham is a pull factor for corporations. He explained that firms appreciate the youth and skills of the people available. In particular, he commented on the high proportion of local residents who are under 25.

The Greater Birmingham strategy has focused on the encouragement of specific economic sectors. This approach has looked at digital media, tech, life sciences, professional services and advanced manufacturing.